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Water plan to let MWD buy Salton Sea source

Posted by: Maven on April 6, 2009 at 7:35 am

From the San Diego Union Tribune:

Six years ago, a historic deal to share Colorado River water was celebrated with barely a wave of recognition to one of its more obscure provisions.

But that section looms large today. If put into effect, the plan could bring an additional 700,000 acre-feet to Southern California over the next 10 years – roughly equivalent to building a temporary reservoir without investing a dime in concrete. Further, the deal could generate about $166 million to help restore the slowly dying Salton Sea and rejuvenate the depressed Imperial Valley economy.

But with all of its promise, the proposal has pitfalls. The plan would shrink the sea and create more blown dust, which has been linked to high rates of childhood asthma. There is also the possibility that state taxpayers could be liable for repairing long-term environmental harm caused by a large water transfer.

Nevertheless, leading California water interests, including the San Diego County Water Authority, are quietly working to advance the plan as widespread water rationing draws closer to becoming reality.

The provision was crafted as part of the seven-state agreement that reallocated water out of the Colorado River and set parameters for Imperial Valley farmers to sell some supplies to the San Diego region.

Read more from the San Diego Union Tribune by clicking here.

April 6, 2009 · Filed Under Salton Sea, Water Agency News

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